Statement: Bristol Bears confirm THREE new signings
24/04/2024 12:16
Ahead of the 2024/25 rugby season, Bristol Bears are gearing up to welcome a trio of promising young players into their ranks.
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Steele Barker, Tom Doughty, and Sam Edwards are set to join the club, adding depth and dynamism to the squad under the guidance of head coach Pat Lam.
Steele Barker, a dynamic second-row forward, arrives from the Championship side Cornish Pirates. At just 23 years old, Barker has already made a name for himself as one of the standout performers in the competition. With 17 appearances for the Pirates in the 2023/24 season, Barker brings a blend of athleticism and aggression to Bristol’s pack.
Joining Barker is hooker Tom Doughty, who brings a wealth of experience from both the Premiership and the Championship. Having previously represented Bath with 24 appearances to his name, Doughty has proven himself as a reliable set-piece operator and a threat in open play. His two tries in 15 appearances for Doncaster Knights this season attest to his versatility and attacking prowess.
Completing the trio is scrum-half Sam Edwards, who makes the switch from Leicester Tigers. Despite his youth at 21 years old, Edwards has already tasted top-flight rugby and represented England at the U20 level. A season-long loan at Championship side Cambridge has further honed his skills, showcasing his potential to make an impact at Bristol.
Pat Lam, the Director of Rugby at Bristol Bears, expressed his excitement about the incoming talents. “Steele is a hungry second row with immense potential,” Lam commented. “His standout performances for Cornish Pirates highlight his eagerness to learn and improve.”
Regarding Doughty, Lam remarked, “Tom brings a wealth of Premiership experience and solid set-piece skills to our squad. His performances for Doncaster Knights have been impressive, and he will undoubtedly bolster our front-row options.”
Lam also had high praise for Edwards, noting, “Sam is a scrum-half with a bright future ahead of him. His exposure to Premiership rugby and successful stint at Cambridge demonstrate his readiness to compete at the highest level.”
Bristol Bears confirm five departures, list includes record-breaking winger
Bristol Bears boss Pat Lam has so far announced five players will be departing the club at the end of the 2023/24 Premiership season.
The club have moved to add to their squad already with powerhouse prop Lovejoy Chawatama and Viliame Mata set to arrive at the club this summer
Check out the five players set to depart below.
#1. Magnus Bradbury
Following two season at Ashton Gate, he will depart Bristol Bears at the conclusion of the season to return home to Scottish URC side Edinburgh, the club can confirm.
The Scotland international number eight has made 42 appearances for the club during his two seasons in the West Country and will make the switch to his hometown club ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: "Magnus has made a massive contribution on and off the field during his two seasons here, which includes winning the prestigious Players' Player of the Year award last season. He has also been an excellent team man on and off the field and he can be very proud of his impact at the Bears.
"Magnus maintains a desire to represent his country and his return to Scotland will certainly help him to achieve his ambitions. We wish him and Eve all the very best with the move and for the future. I know along with the rest of the squad Maggie is determined to make this season a big success before he leaves."
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